Butter no parsnips - Fine words

Definitions

• Dismiss someone's insincere or flattering words
  To express skepticism or doubt about someone's empty promises or insincere compliments. Can also be used as a retort to someone trying to manipulate or deceive with smooth words or flattery.

• Emphasize the importance of action over words
  To remind someone that speaking well or using flattery is not enough to make things happen or achieve success. Action and effort are needed to produce tangible results and bring true benefits.

Examples of Butter no parsnips - Fine words

Conclusion

Overall, "butter no parsnips" is used to caution against relying on empty words or flattery and to emphasize the importance of taking action and putting in effort to achieve results.

Origin of "Butter no parsnips - Fine words"

The origin of this idiom is believed to come from the British countryside, where butter and parsnips were common staples of the diet. In the 17th and 18th centuries, parsnips were often seen as a poor man's food, while butter was a luxury item. Therefore, "butter no parsnips" may have been used as a way to dismiss someone's flattery or promises, as they would not bring any tangible benefit or improvement to one's life.

Another possible origin could be from the phrase "to butter someone up," meaning to flatter or praise someone in order to gain favor or something in return. In this sense, "butter no parsnips" could be seen as a warning to not fall for empty words or flattery and instead focus on actions and results.

Overall, the idiom "butter no parsnips" has been used for centuries to caution against relying on empty words or flattery and to emphasize the importance of taking action and putting in effort to achieve success.